New method swaps single atom in a molecule to speed drug discovery
Chemists at the University of Chicago have developed a new method to swap a single atom in a molecule, specifically targeting pyrroles. This technique makes the synthesis of complex molecules faster and cheaper, potentially accelerating drug discovery.
Why it matters
Improving the efficiency of chemical synthesis can significantly lower the cost and time required to develop new life-saving medications.
edited by Lisa Lock , reviewed by Robert Egan
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Add as preferred source Background, precedent and concept of the study. Credit: Nature (2026). DOI: 10.1038/s41586-026-10933-6 Swapping out one letter in a word can entirely change its meaning. Similarly, swapping one atom in a molecule can completely change its identity. A group of chemists at the University of Chicago has demonstrated a new way to make a single-atom edit to a molecule without changing any of its other components. The innovative method can be used to make a family of molecules known as pyrroles, including many widely used medicines, and is significantly simpler, faster and more cost-effective than previous processes.
The inventors hope the method could help speed up the process of discovering new drugs.
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